Video: A57 bypass at Todwick finally open after 19 month slog

Sophie Wills

After almost two years of construction, the A57 bypass is open and in its final stages of completion.

The construction of the dual carriageway between the M1 junction 31 roundabout and Todwick crossroads is finished, with the temporary one-way system lifted after carriageway surfacing was completed last week.

The new road and roundabout was part of a £14.7 million scheme to straighten the notorious stretch of the A57, known locally as the ‘Todwick bends’.

This marks the end of many diversions and traffic delays, after Kiveton Lane, Todwick Road and Goosecarr Lane were all closed at some point during the project.

Ringway Infrastructure Services, the company behind the development, began work on 10th September 2012.

The company has been praised by Todwick Parish Council for their efficiency and ‘consideration when moving through the village’.

David Gregory, vice-chairman of Todwick Parish Council, said: “The work has been very good.”

“There has never been a question about the need for it.”

“Ringways have not just done a good job- their communications have been superb. Diversions, when needed, were advised in good time, and disruption was kept to a minimum.”

“The only concern we had was the amount of traffic directed onto Kiveton Lane, past the school, and the pre-school sites.”

“There is a mixed impact due to the development- traffic levels are much lower on Goosecarr Lane, but they are higher on Kiveton Lane. Only time will tell how that unfolds.”

“All in all, the project has been a very positive one and we are very impressed with what has been achieved,” he added.